Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Dose Table for every 6 - 8 hours
| Child's Weight (pounds) | 20 - 24 | 25 - 37 | 38 - 49 | 50 - 99 | 100+ | lbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liquid 12.5 mg/ 1 teaspoon (tsp) | 3/4 | 1 | 1 1/2 | 2 | -- | tsp. |
| Liquid 12.5 mg/ 5 milliliters (mlL | 4 | 5 | 7 1/2 | 10 | -- | mL |
| Chewable 12.5 mg | -- | 1 | 1 1/2 | 2 | 4 | tablets |
| Tablets 25 mg | -- | 1/2 | 1/2 | 1 | 2 | tablets |
| Capsules 25 mg | -- | -- | -- | 1 | 2 | caps. |
When to Use: Treatment of allergic reactions, nasal allergies, hives and itching.
Table Notes:
- AGE LIMITS. For allergies, don't use under 1 year of age. (Reason: it causes most babies to be sleepy). For colds, not advised at any age. (Reason: no proven benefits). They should be not be given if under 4 years old. If under 6 years, don't give products with more than one ingredient in them. (Reason: FDA recommendations 10/2008).
- DOSE. Find the child's weight in the top row of the dose table. Look below the correct weight for the dose based on the product you have.
- MEASURE the DOSE. Syringes and droppers are more accurate than teaspoons. If possible, use the syringe or dropper that comes with the medicine. If not, you can get a med syringe at drug stores. If you use a teaspoon, it should be a measuring spoon. (Reason: regular spoons are not reliable.) Keep in mind 1 level teaspoon equals 5 mL and that ½ teaspoon equals 2.5 mL.
- ADULT DOSE. 50 mg
- HOW OFTEN. Repeat every 6 hours as needed.
- CHILDREN’S BENADRYL FASTMELTS. Each fastmelt tablet equals 12.5 mg. They are dosed the same as chewable tablets.